Ready to ace your next accounting interview? The interview process – in any industry – can be daunting for the best of us. The accounting and finance industry is competitive, and the interview round is your chance to shine. If you’ve passed the screening, the time has come to go a step farther and show them what you bring to the table.

Come to the interview with preparation, rest, and confidence, and you will be ready to give it your all. Remember, you are also interviewing the company in this process, so you’re not the only one “on the spot” here. This is your opportunity to learn more about the company and what working in this role would really be like.

6 Tips to Help You Prepare for Your Next Accounting Interview

As you gear up for your next big interview, we have some helpful tips to get you ready for those hard-hitting questions and remain confident during the process.

Tip #1: Research the company

Take the time to research the company you are interviewing for. Understanding their services and background will help you tailor your skills and experience according to how you can best fit the role they are offering. Interviewers are often impressed when they know the candidate has done their due diligence and has taken the extra time to truly get to know the company so that they are in tune with the company’s objectives.

Tip #2: Prepare to talk about your experience

Know your resume inside and out. Additionally, take notes to outline your experience and any relevant scenarios that could be useful to talk about during the interview and bring them with you to the interview. After you do research on the company, it could be a good idea to talk about the solutions you can provide and reflect on how you have helped overcome any challenges or obstacles that have come your way in the past. Make sure to also be prepared to think analytically and provide clear and relevant examples depending on the questions asked.

Tip #3: Show off your communication skills

Accounting is not just about numbers. Communicating with the department, strategizing budgets, presenting at team meetings, as well as building client relationships are likely all part of the job description. Therefore, it’s important to show the interviewer that you are a good communicator. Speak clearly and concisely, express confidence but not arrogance. Even the best in their respective field recognizes there is always more to learn.

Tip #4: Show your enthusiasm

Interviewers want you to be happy and excited about the role you are applying for! Show your interest in the role and be prepared to answer the question of “why” you want to work at the company in this specific position. Be yourself, which means be genuine and let your personality shine throughout the interview.

Tip #5: Know the accounting field

It’s always good to do a little homework and brush up on the latest in your field. The accounting industry has certain tax updates or other regulations that you might need to be aware of. It’s a good idea to look into the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) or the International Accounting Standards Board to stay up to date in case you get any hard-hitting questions regarding your industry.

Pro tip: Legdent offers FREE continuing education classes every month for CPE credit through Ledgent CPE University.

Tip #6: Ask relevant questions

As we mentioned before, you are interviewing your employer as well! Asking relevant questions such as what your future career path looks like, or questions related to the business line you are interviewing for will show the interviewee that you are thoughtful and interested in moving forward. Other questions relating to the culture of the company and learning more about your potential day-to-day schedule are also good questions to help you understand more about the company and what your role would be like.

Preparation and Confidence are Key

Do your homework and prepare thoroughly for your interview. This is your shot to put your best foot forward and well worth investing time to ensure you are fully ready to shine.

Good luck!

Looking for your next accounting hire? Contact one of our Ledgent Finance and Accounting recruiters today!